Dictionary and Thesaurus Tools
Blue buttons are more appropriate for grades K-2. Black buttons are more advanced for grades 3-5.
Dictionary.com is helpful for finding the definitions of words you know how to spell. Just type a word in and you will find a complete dictionary entry including synonyms, examples, and word origins.
Collins English Dictionary includes a thesaurus, translator, and word games.
This thesaurus lets you create a web of words with similar meanings. This is geared for upper elementary students. Students studying synonyms would enjoy using this resource!
Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary is a common English dictionary which gives you definitions in simple terms.
Wordsmyth WILD is an illustrated children's dictionary geared toward grades K-2 and is easy to use for primary readers!
Merriam-Webster's Word Central has dictionary, rhyming and thesaurus tools in one place to help with spelling and meaning of words. It is designed for elementary-aged students.
Click on a letter of the alphabet to see words each with a picture and meaningful sentence. Text is on a 2nd and 3rd grade reading level. Most entries have links to a related website for more information on the topic.
Signing Time's free signing dictionary allows you to search or browse for a word in American sign language. It will be demonstrated for you in a video as well as written out in words. You can learn to sign your favorite song!